Britain’s chances of securing a substantial medal tally in swimming at the Olympics are gravely at risk, as Adam Peaty races against the clock to be fit for this weekend’s relay events following a positive Covid test. On Monday evening at La Défense Arena, Team GB’s newly implemented safety protocols were evident, with coaches and support staff donning face masks around the athletes prior to the races.
Peaty reported symptoms of a sore throat shortly after earning silver in the 100m breaststroke on Sunday night, missing out on a third consecutive gold medal. By Monday afternoon, the British Olympic Association issued a statement clarifying his health situation. There remains cautious optimism about Peaty’s potential return to competition, though uncertainty lingers regarding his possible recovery timeline.
The BOA statement noted: “Adam Peaty began feeling unwell on Sunday, prior to his men’s 100m breaststroke final. After the final, his symptoms worsened, leading to a Covid test early on Monday, which returned positive.”
“He is optimistic about being fit for the relay events later in the swimming schedule. As with any illness, appropriate measures are being taken to ensure the health of the wider team.”
After Duncan Scott finished fourth in the 200m freestyle, where teammate Matt Richards secured silver, Scott emphasized the responsibility Team GB athletes have towards their fellow competitors in the Paris Olympics.
Scott admitted he was unaware that Peaty’s situation had been made public, which is understandable given the focus required for his event preparations.
“Everyone is taking precautions,” Scott stated. “The British team responded quickly to this situation, prioritizing his health over everything else.”
“In addition, we must limit how far it spreads, both within our team and beyond. While we are here to compete, we don’t want others to fall ill. We’re implementing mask-wearing and maintaining hygiene practices.”
Scott appeared crestfallen after narrowly missing the podium. “I’m quite disappointed, as you might expect. Fourth place is disheartening. I was so close again. I’m genuinely thrilled for Matt; it’s fantastic for him.”
Peaty’s availability will significantly influence the dynamics of British swimming post-Olympics. Team GB is expected to be in contention for gold should Peaty recover and participate in both the 4x100m medley and 4x100m mixed medley events. Without him, the challenge becomes considerably tougher.
On social media Monday, Peaty expressed gratitude for the support he received and shared the rationale behind making his diagnosis public. “I advocate for complete transparency in sport, as it is crucial for effective operations,” he stated. “As mentioned in the BOA press release, I tested positive for Covid this morning after feeling unwell yesterday. My focus now is on a swift and thorough recovery to perform at my best in the team relays later this week.”
Ollie Morgan, following his participation in the 100m backstroke final, echoed Scott’s views regarding necessary safety measures within the Team GB environment. “We have implemented all necessary precautions, so we should all be fine,” Morgan commented. “This doesn’t concern us; we trust that everyone will stay safe. We have an excellent health team here.”
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Although there have been no widespread reports of illness within Team GB, five Australian women’s water polo players tested positive for Covid in Paris on July 24. While the specific protocol regarding Peaty remains unclear, Australia’s team chief, Anna Meares, mentioned that their athletes have been wearing masks, isolating from teammates when not training, avoiding high-traffic areas like gyms, and adhering to their respiratory illnesses protocol.
Before the Tokyo Games in 2021, Peaty confirmed that he had received both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine. “I have taken every possible measure to prevent spreading it if I were to have it,” Peaty stated three years ago. “I wear double masks. That’s all I can do.”
“Some athletes arrive here without vaccinations. They should be asked the same questions; unfortunately, it’s a complex issue.”
The standout swimmer of the day was the Canadian teen Summer McIntosh, who triumphed in the women’s 400m individual medley.
